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Hi! Iām Kate, the face behind KateFi.comāa blog all about making life easier and more affordable.
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this Sausage & Peppers Pasta Skilletāa dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta into one satisfying, one-pan meal. Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe comes in at just around $5 per serving, making it a budget-friendly choice for busy families and foodies alike.
š Why Youāll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Enjoy a gourmet-feeling meal for just about $5 per serving.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup as everything cooks in one skillet.
- Flavor-Packed: SautƩed Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a zesty tomato sauce create layers of flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Swap sausage varieties or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
š Ingredients
For the Pasta Skillet:
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed; see Budget-Friendly Sausage Tips)
- 2 bell peppers (any color, sliced into strips)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | ~500 kcal |
Protein | ~25 g |
Carbohydrates | ~55 g |
Fat | ~20 g |
Fiber | ~4 g |
Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions (it will finish cooking in the skillet).
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: SautƩ Sausage & Vegetables
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage; cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove excess fat if necessary.
- Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. SautƩ for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and 1/2 cup chicken broth.
- Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 4: Combine and Finish Cooking
- Add the partially cooked pasta to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the sauce.
- Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and well incorporated.
Step 5: Plate & Garnish
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped basil or parsley.
- Serve immediately while hot.
š° Cost Breakdown (Estimated for 4 Servings)
Ingredient | Estimated Cost |
---|---|
Pasta (8 oz) | $1.00 |
Italian sausage (1 lb) | $3.00 |
Bell peppers & onion | $1.50 |
Garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, spices | $1.00 |
Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup) | $0.75 |
Total Estimated Cost | ~$7.25 |
Cost Per Serving (approx.) | ~$1.81 |
Prices are approximate and may vary by location. Use store brands and bulk buying for further savings!
Additional Tips & Variations
Cooking & Storage Tips
- Meal Prep: This dish is ideal for meal prepping. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.
- Pasta Texture: If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more broth or reserved pasta water.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Add extra veggies such as mushrooms or zucchini for more flavor and nutrition.
- Protein Swap: Substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in extra cheese or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a richer taste.
Presentation & Serving Suggestions
- Garnishing: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes and fresh herbs adds color and extra flavor.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra gourmet touch, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even penne works well. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
Q: What if I want a spicier dish?
A: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
Q: How do I ensure the pasta doesnāt overcook?
A: Under-cook the pasta by 1-2 minutes, as it will finish cooking in the skillet with the sauce.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the dish ahead and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
For more budget-friendly cooking tips, visit Meal Prep 101: How to Save Time & Money on Family Dinners.
Related Recipes & Internal Links
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š” Follow KateFi.com on Pinterest for:
- Frugal living hacks
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- Creative side hustle tips
- DIY tricks that save you money
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- Crispy Honey Sriracha Chicken ā Sweet, Spicy & Under $5!
- Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff ā A Rich, Creamy Dinner on a Budget
For additional inspiration on budget cooking, check out The 50 Grocery Challenge ā Can You Eat for a Week on This Budget?.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage & Peppers Pasta Skillet is proof that you can create a gourmet-feeling dinner on a shoestring budget. With hearty Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta in a zesty tomato sauce, itās a dish that satisfies both your palate and your wallet. Perfect for busy weeknights or a family gathering, itās a must-try recipe for anyone who loves good food at a great price.
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